Traveling to different places is in demand this time. Some people do it for the purpose of updating their social media accounts, while some are really looking for R&R, especially after going through a very stressful week at work. No matter what our purpose is, we cannot deny the fact that for many of us, traveling holds an inherent element that causes our happiness. Some are lucky to be allowed to have a prolonged leave, but some need to maximize their rest day just to escape temporarily from the busy, bustling city.

So, if you want to spend your rest day somewhere else, but you cannot travel that far, here are some places, near Metro Manila, that you can visit for one day, or where you can stay only for overnight:

1. Potipot Island – Zambales

It takes about 6 hrs to get here from Manila. You can stay overnight, but you have to bring your own tent otherwise, book a hotel in Candelaria Zambales. You can also roam around Subic Bay Freeport Zone before heading back to Manila.

Budget: Php 1,500.00

2. Hundred Islands – Pangasinan

Wanna go island hopping? Go visit Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan. Not all islands are open to public but there are still many that you can visit. You can also do different water activities here, aside from swimming. Tour Guides are also open to assist you in everything that you may be needing, from accommodation to food preparation.

Budget: Php 1,500.00

3. Mt. Pinatubo – Boundaries of Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales

Ok. R&R means rest and relaxation, but some would love to spend it through a strenuous activity such as trekking. So if you are an adventurous type of person who would literally love to go extra mile, then you should try trekking activity at Mt. Pinatubo. It takes about 3 hrs from Manila to Tarlac. From there, you’ll be riding an ATV for 1 hour and trekking for 2 hrs. It’s seriously tiring, but believe me, it’s worth it.

Mt Pinatubo really is a beautiful disaster.

Budget: Php 1,200.00

4. Talisayen Cove – Zambales

If your idea of R&R is to be in an island where you can spend quality time with your loved ones, then Talisayen Cove is the perfect place for you. This island is very peaceful. They do not have electricity nor mobile signal, so you don’t have a choice but to spend your whole time appreciating it’s beauty and enjoying every single moment with family/friends (every once in a while, it’s good to stay away from your social media account and talk personally to people that matter to you). You can bring your own food, you can cook, you can also do trekking, and of course, swimming. Your choice if you want to bring your own tent but their overnight package rate is already inclusive of boat and accommodation (around 4.5k for 5pax or less, 6k for 6-10pax, 10k for 11pax). However, I suggest you to bring your own blanket and travel pillow. Room that will be provided is a nipa hut, and it doesn’t have any other facility.

Budget: Php 1,300.00

5. Buracai De Laiya – Batangas

Getting to this place is rough because the road is still under development, but Buracai De Laiya  is still commendable because of its ambiance. What I appreciate in this resort is the trust that they give their clients. It was the first time that I heard from a resort staff that payment can be done through bank deposit, after check-out. The resort just opened last 2016 so the facilities are still good. The pool is also well maintained. I didn’t have the chance to enjoy the beach but I was told that it’s a bit rocky.

This resort is so INSTAGRAMmable. Just don’t expect that you can post your photo/video immediately because of the intermittent mobile network connection, and internet is only available at the lobby area.

Budget – Php 1,500.00

There are actually a lot more that you can visit near Metro Manila, but so far, these places are on top of my list.

Have fun when you travel, but never forget the “Leave No Trace” Principles.

Happy Rest Day!